This cozy Pumpkin Spice Milk is the perfect drink for chilly days! It combines creamy milk, pumpkin puree, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a tasty treat.
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just heat the ingredients together, and you’re ready to enjoy this comforting drink. It feels like a warm hug in a mug! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Whole milk makes it creamy, while almond or oat milk is great for a dairy-free option. I often use almond milk for its nutty flavor.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient, but you can also make your own by roasting and blending fresh pumpkin. This can add a fresher taste!
Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts to make your own blend. Adjust it based on taste preference.
Sweetener: Brown sugar adds a cozy richness, but honey or maple syrup works beautifully as alternatives. Use what you have on hand!
How Do I Heat Milk Without Scorching It?
Heating milk slowly is key to avoiding scorching. Here’s how:
- Use a saucepan over medium heat, as high heat can burn the milk.
- Stir frequently to keep the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Watch for steam rising and small bubbles forming just before it boils. Remove from heat at this point.
- Don’t rush this process! Taking your time ensures a smooth, creamy pumpkin spice milk.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Milk
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup milk (whole, almond, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Ground cinnamon or additional pumpkin pie spice (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pumpkin spice milk takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend just a few minutes heating and mixing your ingredients, creating a warm and comforting drink that’s perfect for any chilly day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar or maple syrup. Stir everything together to combine the flavors well. You want to make sure the pumpkin puree is fully incorporated.
2. Heat it Up:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring often to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom and the milk heats evenly. You want it to get hot but not boil, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Vanilla:
Once the mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor.
4. Serve Your Pumpkin Spice Milk:
Pour the warm pumpkin spice milk into a mug. Be careful, as it can be hot! Top it off with a generous swirl of whipped cream, making it feel extra special.
5. Add the Finishing Touch:
Finally, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or extra pumpkin spice on top for a beautiful garnish. This little touch makes it look delicious!
6. Enjoy!
Enjoy your cozy pumpkin spice milk while it’s warm. Perfect for sipping by the fire or on a chilly evening!
Can I Use Sugar Substitutes in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener if you’re looking for a low-calorie option. Just remember to adjust the amount based on the sweetness level of the substitute since they can be much sweeter than regular sugar.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover pumpkin spice milk, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, giving it a good stir to reincorporate the ingredients.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes, simply swap the regular milk for your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond, coconut, or oat milk. Ensure that your pumpkin puree and sweeteners are also vegan-friendly!
Can I Scale the Recipe for a Larger Batch?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you’d like to make. Keep in mind that you’ll need a larger saucepan to heat everything evenly, and it might take a bit longer to heat through.
